The agreement announced Wednesday covers 2,857 Wal-Mart and Sam’s Club stores in 28 states that follow federal OSHA standards. The 22 states that operate their own OSHA inspection programs could negotiate similar agreements.

Under the federal settlement, Wal-Mart has agreed to improve worker training programs for operating hazardous equipment and use of cleaning chemicals.

Wal-Mart spokesman Randy Hargrove said the company immediately addressed the problems as soon as it was made aware of them.

“We have long-standing policies and training requirements in our stores designed to ensure the safety of our associates,” he said.